AUDIO/VIDEO POST. (AUDIO ONLY.) LOGIC. THE FALLACY OF THE EXCLUDED MIDDLE, OR THE "ALL OR NOTHING" MINDSET. PT 1.

Have you had this type of conversation before?

DO YOU REMEMBER...BLASTS FROM THE PAST. ANALYSIS OF PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMAS 2016 SOTUS. PT 1.

WITH DONALD TRUMPS SOTUS OVER, I THINK  IT WOULD
BE INTERESTING TO CONTRAST IT WITH BARACK OBAMAS
2016 SOTUS.

After a Short Opening, THE PRESIDENT OFFERED THE FOLLOWING COMMENT; 

"...But, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the constructive approach that you and the other leaders took at the end of last year to pass a budget and make tax cuts permanent for working families. So I hope we can work together this year on some bipartisan priorities..."

That's Right, Praising the Opposition for the Ability to Work with Him, and other Ranking Democrats, to create a Budget both sides could live with.  Considering the amount of Time and Effort the Republican Party has spent attempting to Block or Destroy ANYTHING THE PRESIDENT PROPOSES TO ADDRESS SPECIFIC ISSUES, OFTEN IT SEEMS WITHOUT ANY REASONABLE EXPLANATION, THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE ATTEMPT TO REACH OUT, AND GIVE CREDIT TO THE OPPOSITION FOR FINALLY DOING SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE.

However, we must consider The Following:

-  Had the Republican Party backed themselves into such a corner, being perceived as a group that wanted nothing to get done, that they had to do SOMETHING TO AVOID BEING CHARACTERIZED AS PURELY NEGATIVE AND OBSTRUCTIONIST.

-  The President then goes on to the Next Section of the Speech:

"...I’ll keep pushing for progress on the work that still needs doing. Fixing a broken immigration system. Protecting our kids from gun violence. Equal pay for equal work, paid leave, raising the minimum wage. All these things still matter to hardworking families; they are still the right thing to do; and I will not let up until they get done."

What Affect will this have on the REPUBLICAN PARTY LEADERSHIP?

-  REMEMBER, THIS IS A PARTY WHO HAS CONVINCED AT LEAST A PORTION OF IT'S SUPPORTERS THAT;  AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE, AND AN INCREASE IN THE MINIMUM WAGE ARE NOT GOOD IDEAS, EVEN IF THEY HAVE A DESIRABLE AFFECT ON YOU, YOUR FAMILY, AND THE COUNTRY AS A WHOLE.  

-  YET, THEY ALSO ARGUE THAT YOUR NEIGHBORS ABILITY TO HAVE FREE ACCESS TO LEGAL FIREARMS, REGARDLESS OF PREVIOUS CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR, AND/OR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES, IS SOMETHING THAT IS GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY.

LOGIC. THE FALLACIES OF: SPECIAL PLEADING, APPEAL TO A HIGHER POWER, LACK OF FAITH, SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE. PART 2.

 

How can these Fallacies harm anyone?  Quite simply, Allowing the Introduction of any Form of Faith Based Morality, Anti- Science Methodology, Subjective Evaluation of any Form of Legal System etc., into the Public Forum as MORAL JUDGMENTS THAT MUST BE LEGISLATED INTO LAW, COULD POTENTIALLY LEAD TO THE FOLLOWING;

1)  THEOCRATIC LEGISLATION-  Example.

Lawmaker #1-  "Woman should be able to expect equal pay for equal work.  We need to pass Laws against Wage Discrimination."

Lawmaker #2-  "No, the BIBLE says the Man is the Head of the Household. Woman shouldn't be doing work meant for Men, and should be discouraged from taking such Jobs. It is GODS will."

If you disagree with this, and point out that such Legislation is Unconstitutional, you could be Hit with the following-  "You are Denying the Word of God, if you opened your Heart, you would see the Truth."

THIS IS THE "LACK OF FAITH" FALLACY.

2)   BAD SCIENCE.-  Example.

Consumer #1-  "I don't know why anyone would use a Homeopathic Remedy. There

is NO EVIDENCE THAT THEY WORK, AND NO REASON TO EXPECT THAT THEY EVER WILL."

Consumer #2-  "Your Just another Apologist for BIG PHARMA AND THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION.  HOMEOPATHS ARE SPECIALLY TRAINED TO TREAT THE 'WHOLE PERSON',  SO THEY ARE CAPABLE OF DOING MORE THAN A REGULAR M.D., WHO DOESN'T HAVE ACCESS TO THESE NON- TRADITIONAL TREATMENTS."

THIS IS THE "SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE" FALLACY.

From these First Two Examples, we are coming up against LOGICAL FALLACIES,

that by their Very Nature, Cannot be Evaluated on a Factual Basis;

-  Since in the First Example a Higher Power is Invoked, we cannot DISPROVE 'THE WORD' OF AN ENTITY THAT EXISTS SOLELY IN THE FAITH BASED SYSTEMS OF OTHERS.

-  In #2, we are confronted with the idea that one group has an ABILITY THAT ONLY EXISTS IF YOU ACCEPT THEIR METHODS OF HEALING WITHOUT ANY ANALYSIS CONDUCTED BY THE RULES THAT ARE PART OF THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD.

LOOK FOR PART 3.

AUDIO/VIDEO POST. THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD. THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE. PT 1.

WHAT A SHAME- A look at the low points in the modern media. HUMILIATION TELEVISION; IT DOESN'T GET ANY LOWER THAN THIS. PT 13.

So if what we are watching on TV Today, at Least in Terms of SO-CALLED "REALITY TELEVISION," is a return to the Concept of "BREAD AND CIRCUSES" that was part of the ROMAN EMPIRE, why does it appeal to so many people?

It may be Difficult for some fans of these shows to accept, but it could be the Desire to see a PATHETIC OR UNAPPEALING INDIVIDUAL SUFFERING, AND THAT NO MATTER HOW BAD THE VIEWERS LIFE IS, AT LEAST ITS NOT THEM ON THE SCREEN.

To Add to this Image, a HOST is tossed in. What Are they they there for?
After viewing a number of examples, their function seems to be:

-  To Make the Guests seem more Reprehensible.

-  To Fan the Flames, by Encouraging More Conflict,
including Physical Altercations.

-  To Show the Audience that They can Rescue the 

Guests from Themselves. Of Course Help is offered 

after Thoroughly Humiliating and Demeaning those on Stage.

Remember, These shows are Promoting what you are seeing as TRUE TO LIFE,

NOT CHARACTERS ACTING FROM A SCRIPT.  ( How much of this is actually True
is Very Suspect, and Accusations of Fictional Dramas being played off as REALITY RUN RAMPANT.)

However, what does it say about the Regular Viewers of such Material?  Is the Pain, Anguish, and Emotional Suffering appearing before Their Eyes somehow CATHARTIC, when They See: 

-  Members of the Audience Chant and Ridicule Those who are the Focus of the Days Program. 

-  See Individuals in a better Economic Situation then They, Suffer Emotionally

and Physically.

-  The Anger, Hate and Turmoil They may feel, reduced to an OBJECT OF PITY

AND RIDICULE, WHERE THE ONLY THING THEY TAKE AWAY FROM THE 

EPISODE IS AN ATTITUDE OF, "AT LEAST THAT'S NOT ME."

Some will CRITICIZE me for taking issue with Subject Matter that is just a GUILTY PLEASURE, AND SHOULDN'T BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

I'm Sorry to say This, but anything placed on TV that:

-   Uses Live Film of Minor Children to Create Tension and Confrontation,

ESPECIALLY AMONG PARENTAL FIGURES...

-   Pretends to Solve Complex Emotional Problems with 15- 20 Minutes

of POP PSYCHOLOGY...

-   Encourages or Creates Situations that May Lead to Physical Violence...

-  Opens and Closes with Monologues by the Host, Telling everyone 

how Wise and Benevolent They are...

... AMONG THE MOST DISGUSTING AND DISTASTEFUL FORMS OF PROGRAMMING, THAT ARE OF NO CONCEIVABLE BENEFIT TO ANYONE, ACCEPT MAYBE THOSE WHO BUY ADVERTISING DURING THE AIRING OF THE SHOW.

THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD. THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE. PT 3.

(NEWSPAPER ACCOUNT CONTINUES.)

The story told by First Mate Martin of the JUPITER, regarding the investigation of the Hold on the ALBATROSS, has caused quite a stir in this Seaside Metropolis.

Boston Maritime Officials have not commented on this Testimony, but sources say they are quite perplexed.

Here are portions of the Further Sworn Testimony given by Martin, the facts which were affirmed by the two crewmen who accompanied him. This concerns the exploration of the Hold.

Martin- "As we went below, a strong odor of Decay was noticed.  There was very little water, so she still seemed watertight.  The smell was terrible, like rotting food left out in the Sun.  I sent Drury Forward, and Lyons Aft, while I remained Amidships.  The Cargo, if there ever was any, was gone.  There were a few mostly empty Barrels turned over, but nothing else.  It was, as if, she been unloaded in a a hurry. All we found were scraps of what seemed to be well cooked Beef and Mutton, sticking to the insides of the Barrels."

Martin was questioned as to the General Condition of the Hold.  "Well, my Mates and I did notice a couple of things.  There was a Green Type of Growth, almost like Mold, covering much of the Deck and Walls.  It seemed to be everywhere, and was starting to cover the stairs leading up to the Main Deck."

When asked if he was sure that it was Mold, and nothing else, Martin replied, "Well I don't know what else to call it. But, when I touched it, it didn't feel right. It was warm, and the surface felt like Skin, Hard and Rough.  I know I said it seemed like Mold, but I won't swear an Oath to it."

When asked if he had anything more to add about the condition of the Hold, Martin had hesitated.  When prompted again by Officials, he replied: "Maybe it's was just Nerves, but I always had a feeling of being watched, at least when we were below. I know your probably thinking that I was spooked, or a bit daft. But Drury and Lyons felt the same thing.  Never was I more relieved then when we returned to the Main Deck, with the Feel of the Sun on my face.  You want to know what was in the Hold?  The Look, Smell and Feeling of Death."

END PT 3.

UPDATE ON THE DONALD TRUMP SERIES OF "ADVERTORIALS," PROMOTING CERTAIN FINANCIAL PROGRAMS LOCATED ON THE INTERNET.

I would assume that most of my readers are familiar with this type of ADVERTORIAL, which Promotes dubious financial programs found on the Internet.

However, this Series of "Ads" differs from others because they include;

-  "ENDORSEMENTS" BY DONALD TRUMP, DIRECTED AT BOTH THE PROGRAM ITSELF AND ITS "CREATOR."

 -  Ads that DESIGNATE FOX NEWS 
AND CNN AS "REPORTING"
NEWS SERVICES.

-  Client or Program Titles which have included the following:

-  FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE  ACADEMY.

-  INCOME FOR AMERICANS PLAN.

-  HOME CASH CODE.

-  INCOME FROM HOME, etc...

However, for the first time, this is what appeared when I Clicked on the above Intro Page...

                                IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ

http://affiliate.trk4.com/rd/r.php?sid=15215&pub=107207&c1=65...

Suspicious attack ahead

Webroot has blocked access to the website you tried to open.
It has been reported to contain suspicious content.

 Tell me more about it

LOGIC. IT'S NOT JUST FOR VULCANS, AND VIEWERS OF "THE BIG BANG THEORY." #7. THE FALLACY OF INTOLERANCE. PT 2.

The Basis for much of this Type of Fallacy, is often ZEALOTRY being masked behind Specific Beliefs and Attitudes found in Religion and Nationalism.  These are used as Reasons to claim that Certain;

-  EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH. 

-  POLITICAL IDEOLOGIES.

-  CULTURAL AND SOCIAL ATTITUDES, BASED ON CLASS DISTINCTION.

Are Supported by Individuals who claim They want what is Best for Every Individual, which Includes Families and Friends, and the Country as a whole.  However, Upon Closer Analysis, we find that such Conclusions are not Based in Reality, and Often hide a SELF- SERVING AGENDA.

Unlike the SOCIOPATH, (See FEATURE ARTICLES) , most People don't want to Think that others are Being Cheated, Harmed or Treated Unfairly.  This is Especially True if They are Getting Benefits or Advantages Denied to Others.  This can become a Crisis of Conscience, unless they can RATIONALIZE THE INEQUALITY IN A WAY THAT LETS THEM OFF THE HOOK.  It may not take much to Alleviate any Feelings of Guilt, and POLITICS OFTEN OFFERS A CONVENIENT WAY OUT OF THIS EMOTIONAL DILEMMA. 

This is the FOUNDATION OF ZEALOTRY THAT IS FOUND IN MANY PARTS OF THE POLITICAL SYSTEM.  It Allows SUPPORTERS;

-  To Draw Conclusions about Entire Segments of Society, without providing any Real Evidence that All Members of such Groups Deserves to be Judged in the Same Light.

-  To Justify abolishing certain Government Programs Designed to Address Economic and Social Hardships, if there are any Problems in how they are Administered, while at the same time ignoring the Positive Affects on those who were meant to be Helped. Further, these Same Types of Problems are Given a Free Pass, and are not Addressed, if They Occur in Programs that the Zealots Benefit From.

-  To Claim Discrimination or Unfairness if New Laws or Judicial Decisions take away Their Privileged Status, and Offer Equality Under the Law by Legalizing Social Behaviors and Civil Contracts that will give all the same Status.

ZEALOTRY IS OFTEN THE FACE OF INTOLERANCE, JUST ANOTHER EXCUSE FOR IRRATIONAL THINKING.

AUDIO/VIDEO POST. Fiction- Stories, Myths and Legends. THE LEGEND OF THE VANISHING LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS. PT 2.

QUICK HITTERS. POST #52. THE HORRIFIC IMPLICATIONS OF REFUSING TO MEET AND EVALUATE THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE FOR THE U.S. SUPREME COURT. PART 4.

(THIS IS PART 4 IN A SERIES OF ARTICLES I WROTE CONCERNING

THE CONTROVERSY CREATED BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES 

TREATMENT OF MERRICK GARLAND, BARACK OBAMAS CHOICE 

TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE U.S. SUPREME COURT.)

In the End, the IMPLICATIONS OF NOT ALLOWING A SENATE HEARING FOR A PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE GOES EVEN DEEPER THAN MANY THINK, BUT I THINK THE REPUBLICAN PARTY IS AWARE OF THIS, AND IS WILLING TO ACCEPT THE CONSEQUENCES. 

-  THE SEPARATION OF POWERS, (EXECUTIVE, LEGISLATIVE, JUDICIAL), HAS BEEN USURPED BY THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH IN THIS CASE. HOWEVER, IN THE FUTURE IT MAY BE THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH REFUSING TO NOMINATE ANYONE AT ALL, UNLESS CERTAIN CONCESSIONS ARE MET.

-  GIVEN THE COMPLETE DISREGARD FOR CONSTITUTIONAL LAW, YOU ARE LEFT WITH A SYSTEM THAT ENCOURAGES THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY TO BEHAVE IN THE SAME MANNER, IF THE POSITIONS ARE REVERSED. DO YOU REALLY EXPECT ONE PARTY TO BE FAIR AND OPEN IN THE SELECTION PROCESS, IF THE OTHER IS JUST GOING TO DISCARD IT ANYWAY?  

-  IN ANY CASE, THE FUTURE OF OUR JUDICIAL SYSTEM WILL BE PUSHED TOWARDS TOTAL CHAOS, WITH RANSOMING THE LEGAL SYSTEM A GIFT LEFT TO FUTURE GENERATIONS. NO LONGER WILL THERE BE A SYSTEM OF CHECKS AND BALANCES, WITH NEITHER THE WHITE HOUSE OR THE SENATE CONTROLLING THE FATE OF OUR SYSTEMS OF LAW.

-  EVEN IF THE REFUSAL TO HOLD A HEARING IS SOMEHOW ALLOWED TO STAND, BUT A DEMOCRAT WINS THE PRESIDENCY, WE COULD STILL BE LEFT WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.  THEY WILL HAVE DONE IT ONCE, WITHOUT SANCTION, WHAT IS TO STOP THE REPUBLICANS FROM DOING IT AGAIN?

AND AGAIN...AND AGAIN...AND AGAIN.

SO THE BIG QUESTION IS: WHY?

QUICK HITTERS. POST #51. THE HORRIFIC IMPLICATIONS OF REFUSING TO MEET AND EVALUATE THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE FOR THE U.S. SUPREME COURT. PART 3.

(THIS IS PART 3 IN A SERIES OF ARTICLES I WROTE CONCERNING

THE CONTROVERSY CREATED BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES 

TREATMENT OF MERRICK GARLAND, BARACK OBAMAS CHOICE 

TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE U.S. SUPREME COURT.)

What is Even More Frightening Than a Few MEGALOMANIACS IN THE REPUBLICAN PARTY REFUSING TO UPHOLD THEIR LEGALLY SWORN OATH TO THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, IS THAT IF IT IS ALLOWED TO STAND WITHOUT A LEGAL CHALLENGE, WE MAY END GOING FROM AN "OLIGARCHY," WITH POLITICAL POWER RESTING IN THE HANDS OF A FEW, TO A "DICTATORSHIP," WITH POWER RESTING IN THE HANDS OF ONE.

Remember, the Nomination of a CANDIDATE FOR A SEAT ON THE SUPREME COURT, AND FOR NUMEROUS OTHER POSITIONS IN GOVERNMENT, RESTS WITH THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN, IN PRACTICAL TERMS?

"...and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for..."

Do you see it?  If Refusing to Act on a DUTY THAT IS PART OF THE OATH OF OFFICE ACCORDING TO THE CONSTITUTION, IS ALLOWED TO STAND WITHOUT SANCTION OR PENALTY, A PRECEDENT IS SET THAT CANNOT COMPEL ANYONE TO BE LEGALLY OBLIGATED TO ACT IN A SIMILAR MANNER PROSCRIBED BY THE DOCUMENT.

THE PRESIDENT ALONE NOMINATES CANDIDATES, NO ONE ELSE.

What is to Stop a U.S. PRESIDENT FROM DELAYING, OR REFUSING TO NOMINATE, CANDIDATES FOR POSTS THAT ARE VACANT, IF THE SENATE DOES NOT CONTAIN A BODY OF MEMBERS THAT ARE SYMPATHETIC TO APPROVING THOSE NOMINEES THE PRESIDENT FEELS ARE THE "RIGHT CHOICES?"

QUICK HITTERS.THE HORRIFIC IMPLICATIONS OF REFUSING TO MEET AND EVALUATE THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE FOR THE U.S. SUPREME COURT. PART 1.

QUICK HITTERS.THE HORRIFIC IMPLICATIONS OF REFUSING TO MEET AND EVALUATE THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE FOR THE U.S. SUPREME COURT. PART 1.

(THIS IS PART 1 IN A SERIES OF ARTICLES I WROTE CONCERNING

THE CONTROVERSY CREATED BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES 

TREATMENT OF MERRICK GARLAND, BARACK OBAMAS CHOICE 

TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE U.S. SUPREME COURT.)

If there is one thing that is even Scarier than the U.S. SENATES LEADERSHIP REFUSING TO MEET WITH THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE, AND NOT EVEN DISCUSSING IT IN COMMITTEE, IS THE POWER THAT IS BEING HANDED TO ONE OR TWO POWER HUNGRY POLITICIANS.

CONSIDER THIS.

NOT ONLY IS THE PRESIDENTS CONSTITUTIONAL OBLIGATION AND DUTY TO SELECT AND NOMINATE A SUCCESSOR TO THE COURT BEING IGNORED, BUT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY WANTS THE FUTURE OF OUR JUDICIAL SYSTEM TO BE PLACED IN THE HANDS OF 1-2 SENATORS. 

THE SENATE LEADERSHIP WAS ELECTED TO REPRESENT THEIR HOME STATES. HOWEVER, THIS POLICY ALLOWS THEM TO IGNORE THOSE REPRESENTING THE OTHER 48 STATES, BY DENYING SENATORS FROM BOTH PARTIES THE OPPORTUNITY TO EVALUATE AND VOTE ON THE SELECTED PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE.  THE ONLY OPINION THEY CARE ABOUT, AND WILL ACT ON, IS THEIR OWN. 

ANY SENATOR THAT ALLOWS THIS TO GO UNCHALLENGED, HAS BETRAYED THEIR CONSTITUENTS IN FAVOR OF A DICTATORIAL POLICY THAT GRANTS OTHER STATES A POWER THEY HAVE NOT EARNED, AND DO NOT DESERVE. (THROUGH THE ELECTORAL PROCESS). 

THIS IS A CLEAR ABUSE OF POWER, AND AN UNCONSTITUTIONAL ATTEMPT TO BYPASS THE ROLE OF THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH IN THE SELECTION PROCESS.

SEE PART 2.

QUICK HITTERS. POST #50. THE HORRIFIC IMPLICATIONS OF REFUSING TO MEET AND EVALUATE THE PRESIDENTS NOMINEE FOR THE U.S. SUPREME COURT. PART 2.

(THIS IS PART 2 IN A SERIES OF ARTICLES I WROTE CONCERNING

THE CONTROVERSY CREATED BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES 

TREATMENT OF MERRICK GARLAND, BARACK OBAMAS CHOICE 

TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE U.S. SUPREME COURT.)

WITH PRESIDENT OBAMAS SELECTION OF CHIEF JUDGE MERRICK GARLAND, A HIGHLY QUALIFIED AND VERY CAPABLE CANDIDATE WHO CANNOT REASONABLY BE CONSIDERED TO FALL AT EITHER END OF THE POLITICAL SPECTRUM, THE CLOCK IS NOW TICKING FOR THE U.S. SENATE TO NOW FOLLOW ITS OATH OF OFFICE TO "SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION."

CONSIDER THE IMPLICATIONS IF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY STILL REFUSES TO HONOR THEIR DUTY TO THE PEOPLE OF THE U.S.

#1-  IF THIS IS ALLOWED TO STAND, IS THE DOCUMENT NOW A "PICK AND CHOOSE" PIECE OF PAPER, THAT PERMITS A "FOLLOWING ITS DIRECTIONS IF YOU FEEL LIKE IT" MENTALITY, WHERE OBEYING THE GUIDELINES AND INSTRUCTIONS WRITTEN INTO THE BODY OF THE DOCUMENT ARE NO LONGER COMPULSORY?

IN OTHER WORDS-  THESE DIRECTIVES ARE NO LONGER UNIVERSAL, EQUALLY APPLIED TO EVERYONE IN EVERY CASE.  THEY NOW BECOME CONTINGENT UPON THE PERSONAL WHIMS, PREJUDICES, AND SELF-INTERESTS OF ANY POLITICIAN OR ELECTED OFFICIAL.

ONE OF THE STRENGTHS, AND ENDURING LEGACIES OF THE CONSTITUTION IS ITS SYSTEM OF "CHECKS AND BALANCES."  NONE OF THE THREE PARTS OF GOVERNMENT:

EXECUTIVE.

LEGISLATIVE.

JUDICIAL.

...WOULD HAVE UNCHALLENGED AUTHORITY OVER ANY PART OF THE LEGAL SYSTEM. HOWEVER, BY DISREGARDING CONSTITUTIONAL LAW, THE REPUBLICAN PARTY LEADERSHIP IS DESTROYING THE VERY FABRIC OF OUR JUSTICE SYSTEM. THEY WILL HAVE USURPED THE POWER OF THE PRESIDENT, BY REFUSING TO MEET AND CONSIDER HIS NOMINEE.

If this sounds good to you, RESEARCH THE WORD "OLIGARCHY", AND GET 

USE TO IT.

SEE PART 3.

AUDIO POST. THE DIVINE RIGHT OF KINGS- WHAT THE FRAMERS OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION UNDERSTOOD, AND WHAT MANY AMERICANS FORGET. PT 1.

Human Rights Campaign- WOMENS HISTORY MONTH.

 In January, women and advocates from across the country locked arms in the name of fairness, equality, and justice for the Women’s March. Millions let their voices be heard, turning energy into sustained political action. During Women’s History Month, HRC honors the women who made it possible.

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. MORE HEALTH SCAMS- WATCH OUT FOR THE SIGNS OF BAD SCIENCE AND FRAUD. PT 4.

(First published on 4/27/2015. Think about how many of those who will lose Decent Medical Care turning to Questionable Advice if the REPUBLICAN PARTY destroys the AFFORDABLE CARE ACT.)

As Dr. Oz is again assailed by the Medical Community for Promoting or Advocating Medicine not Based on the SCIENTIFIC METHOD, his Defenders are again crying Persecution.

Dr. Oz. ( Real Name Mehmet Cengiz Öz), has such an Extensive History of Supporting Improper, Unproven and Irrational forms of Medical Treatment, that just a short Trip to Google will give you all the Information you need to know about the Unscientific, and Often Bogus Claims he has Advocated For over the Airways, regarding Specific Products and Their Effectiveness.

However, let us look AT WHY THE MEDICAL COMMUNITY, GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, SCIENCE WRITERS etc, consider Dr. Oz., and others like Him, a Genuine Danger for Giving Improper and Unsupported Medical Advice about some of the Products and Treatments that have been Endorsed, Now and In the Past.

#1-  YOU EITHER FOLLOW THE PROPER PROCEDURES THAT ARE LAID OUT BY THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD, OR NOT.  IT IS AN ALL OR NOTHING WAY OF TESTING AND EVALUATING ANY CLAIM MADE ABOUT A PRODUCT, TREATMENT OR LIFESTYLE CHOICE.  PROPER RESULTS THAT CAN BE REPLICATED, DUPLICATED AND EVALUATED THROUGH CONTROLLED TESTING AND STRICT LABORATORY PROCEDURES ARE NOT VALID IF THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD IS USED JUST 10, 20, 50 OR EVEN 99% OF THE TIME.

#2-  PROPER EDUCATION AND TRAINING DOES NOT GIVE YOU A PASS TO OFFER ANY MEDICAL ADVICE, THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN AT FACE VALUE WITHOUT ANY CRITICISM ABOUT ITS EFFICACY. WHAT HAS BEEN ACCOMPLISHED IN THE PAST MUST STAND ON ITS OWN, AND DOES NOT NECESSARILY TRANSLATE INTO FUTURE SUCCESS.  JUSTIFICATION FOR RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUPPORT OF DIFFERENT PRODUCTS, METHODS AND PROCEDURES MUST EXIST INDEPENDENTLY OF PREVIOUS OPINIONS AND RESULTS.

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. MORE HEALTH SCAMS- WATCH OUT FOR THE SIGNS OF BAD SCIENCE, AND FRAUD. PT 3.

Now, before I go on with pointing out the problems with MEDICAL PRACTICES THAT ARE NOT BASED ON THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD, I WOULD LIKE TO ANSWER A COUPLE CRITICISMS PEOPLE RAISE WHEN THESE "DISCIPLINES," ARE ATTACKED FOR THEIR DUBIOUS METHODS.

*  PEOPLE SHOULD BE ABLE TO CHOOSE THE MEDICAL TREATMENT THAT THEY WANT WANT.

I Agree 100%, (Within Reason.)  If you want to Select Medical Treatment that has no Basis in Reality, go for it. HOWEVER;

You Shouldn't Expect The GOVERNMENT to Pay for it.  The Millions of Dollars spent a Year, Now and In the Past, by Government to Police the Medical Field and prevent the GENERAL PUBLIC from being Victimized by Charlatans and Quacks, should not be Undermined by giving Tax Money to Those who provide MEDICAL CARE AND TREATMENT BASED ON FANTASY, AND IRRATIONAL CONCLUSIONS THAT ARE NOT BASED IN LEGITIMATE RESEARCH AND TESTING.

*  I AM THE PARENT AND SHOULD DECIDE WHAT IS BEST FOR MY CHILDREN.

While any Individual Adult of a Capacity to Mentally and Intellectually Select Their own Life Choices should be left alone, Those who are Subject to, or under the care of Another, must not be allowed to become Subjected to Sham or Unproven Medical Practices.  Our CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM BASICALLY REQUIRES ALL GUARDIANS AND CAREGIVERS TO BE HELD TO A MINIMUM STANDARD OF PROVIDING APPROPRIATE MEDICAL CARE.  CHIROPRACTIC, NATUROPATHIC AND HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT DO NOT MEET SUCH STANDARDS, AT LEAST IN TERMS OF BEING THE FIRST CHOICE OF PRIMARY CARE.

Now it is quite True that NONE OF THE THREE OPERATE OUTSIDE THE LAW, IF THE "TREATMENT" IS OPEN TO EXAMINATION, AND DOES NOT PROMISE WHAT CANNOT BE  DELIVERED.  IN FACT, THEY CAN BE USED TO SUPPLEMENT PROPER MEDICAL CARE, WITHOUT LEGAL SANCTIONS, AS LONG AS IT DOES NOT CANCEL OUT, OR INTERFERE WITH REGULAR MEDICAL TREATMENT.

WHAT A SHAME- A look at the low points in the modern media. HUMILIATION TELEVISION; IT DOESN'T GET ANY LOWER THAN THIS: "BREAD AND CIRCUSES."

"BREAD AND CIRCUSES", is a Phrase used to Describe the Degeneration of Society, where the Pursuit of Intellectual Ideals and Civil Discourse disappears from Society, Replaced by the Pursuit of Mindless Pleasure, and the Basic Needs required for Survival being met to the Individuals Satisfaction. 

The Classic Example is the Fall of the Roman Empire.  After Extending its Borders to Encompass much of the Known World, Emperors began holding to Power by providing Extravagant Entertainment to Citizens of the Empire, and meeting the Basic Survival Needs of Food and Shelter.

Politicians came to Realize that the Average Roman Citizen cared little for anything else but a Full Stomach, and Having Their Desire for Excitement, Depravity, and Blood Lust met on a regular Basis. Control the Mob with "BREAD AND CIRCUSES", and they will forever Sing your Praises.  It is considered one of the Reasons why such Inhuman Monsters like Tiberius, Caligula, and Nero were able to Rule for any Length of Time.

Now, I am not saying we are heading into such a Situation in the U.S., and that very soon Modern Day Gladiators, Charioteers, and Condemned Criminals will once again be put on Display to Satisfy the Baser Desires of the Public at Large.

However, there are some Valid Comparisons Between Society Today, and the Roman Empire of Two Thousand Years ago.  It is not the Type of Entertainment we should be looking at, but what is given up Morally, Intellectually, and Politically if we choose to make Humiliation, Depravity, Irrational Conduct, and the Total Disregard for Consequences a LIFESTYLE CHOICE THAT IS ADMIRED AND REWARDED FINANCIALLY, CIVILLY, AND POLITICALLY.  TODAY, WE MAY CALL SUCH THINGS EXAMPLES OF;  REALITY TELEVISION, TALK SHOWS, COURTROOM DRAMAS, POLITICAL ROUND TABLES, AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION GEARED TO MASS ENTERTAINMENT.

What is even more Absurd, is the PSEUDO- INTELLECTUALS WHO HOST MANY OF THESE PROGRAMS, WHO TRY TO HIDE THE TRUE MOTIVATIONS FOR PRODUCING SUCH MATERIAL, WITH A PRETENSE OF CARING, HEALING, AND PROTECTING THE "VICTIMS."

LOOK FOR PART 13.

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. INSURANCE- ONE OF LIFES UNGLAMOROUS NECESSITIES. PT 2.

So What did you decide?  Some People think the Answers are Obvious, and are Shocked when they find out They're wrong.

This Leads to the First Rule to Always keep in Mind When Choosing any Form of Insurance, and Filing an Application:

AN INSURANCE POLICY IS, AT ITS HEART, A CONTRACT, AND IS SUBJECT TO ALL THE PENALTIES AND GUARANTEES OF ANY CIVIL AGREEMENT.

In Our First example, we had a man apply for and receive a Life Insurance Policy.  However, he Lied about being a Smoker to Reduce his Premiums.  Some Time later he is killed in an Accident, where his Smoking was not considered to a Contributing Factor in his Death.  The Insurer refused to Pay Out the Death Benefit, and the Family Sued.

SO WHAT HAPPENED?

THE COURT RULED IN FAVOR OF THE INSURANCE COMPANY. WHY?  THE MANNER OF DEATH WAS IMMATERIAL BECAUSE BY LYING AND DECEIVING THE INSURANCE COMPANY, THE INSURED OBTAINED THE POLICY UNDER FRAUDULENT MISREPRESENTATION.  THIS VOIDED THE CONTRACT, AND NO PAYOUT WAS AUTHORIZED.

IF the Mistake had been Minor, perhaps incorrect address or phone number, the Decision may have been different.  But the Health and Lifestyle of the Applicant is of Primary Concern to the Insurance Company.  APPROVAL AND DENIAL OF COVERAGE, AS WELL AS COST, RELY ON HONEST INFORMATION BY THE APPLICANT.

We'll look at the Second Example in the next Segment.

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. GOING ON A DIET? YOU CAN LOSE MORE THAN JUST WEIGHT. PT 9.

HAVE YOU EVER COME ACROSS STATEMENTS LIKE THIS, USUALLY AT THE VERY END OF AN ADVERTISEMENT IN VERY SMALL PRINT.

"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."

I'm sure many of you have seen this on Multiple Occasions, either on T.V. or in Print Advertisements. Usually, it is stuck at the very end of the Ad.                                                                                                              

It is quite common, Almost Universal, when you see an Ad for any kind of Diet Supplement.  WHY IS IT THERE?

-  Because, any Statement or Claim made has not been Evaluated by the FDA.  It is the Manufacturers Responsibility to Provide Evidence for anything it says the Product will do for someone using it.

-  ,,,"not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."  Any Substance that can do these things is CLASSIFIED AS A DRUG.  This is because of the Clinical Affects that it has on the Body.

Since any Claims made regarding the Supplement are Subject to Legal Action if they are not True, Manufacturers use QUALIFYING WORDS TO GET AROUND THIS OBSTACLE.  IF WORDS SUCH AS "MAY", "COULD", "SUPPORT", "BOOST" etc., OR OTHERS LIKE THEM ARE USED, IT IS A SIGN THAT THE MANUFACTURER MAY NOT BE ABLE TO BACK UP THEIR CLAIMS WITH HARD EVIDENCE THAT CAN BE STUDIED OR VERIFIED.

One more thing you should be aware of:  JUST BECAUSE A SUBSTANCE HAS BEEN LABELED SAFE FOR GENERAL USE, DOES NOT INDICATE ITS USEFULNESS TO THE CONSUMER, IN ACCOMPLISHING WHAT THE MANUFACTURER SAYS IT WILL.  THESE ARE SEPARATE ISSUES.

You should also be aware of PHRASES OR TERMS THAT ARE MISLEADING OR MEANINGLESS, IN EVALUATING THE WORTH OF A SUPPLEMENT.

Examples Include - "BOOSTS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM", "REVITALIZES THE BLOOD", "RIDS THE BODY OF TOXINS."  "HELPS YOUR BODY HEAL ITSELF."  

These will be discussed in a Future Post.

BLAST FROM THE PAST: TRUMPS WAR ON TRUTH. DR. RONALD BARNETTE.

From a friend with the facts and evidence.

It’s important to see Trump's massive budget cut in federally funded research -- eliminating the Energy Department's Advanced Research Projects Agency; slashing the National Institutes of Health; eliminating or drastically cutting research by the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration – for what it really is.

It’s part of Trump’s war on truth.

Throughout modern history, demagogues and tyrants have attacked scientists, researchers, investigators, analysts, professors, and all other sources of truth, including journalists. Some have even burned books.

That’s because tyrants don’t want independent sources of truth. Truth threatens their power. They want a monopoly on information, in order to keep the public in the dark. The most revolutionary act in a democracy is speaking truth to power, and spreading the truth so that others may speak it as well.

Trump tells big lies, attacks the independent press, and slashes funding for research. And others to follow. Please allow yourself to use critical thinking to see this for what it is.

PLEASE help save our Country and democracy...

DR. RONALD BARNETTE-  Valdosta State University August 1972 to August 2002.  Retired as distinguished University Professor Emeritus of Philosophy.

WHAT A SHAME. TELEVISION: HOW DO I KNOW IF IT IS WORTH MY TIME? PT 3.

Let us Examine the Two Statements that are from the first example in PART 2.

  "MOST UFO SIGHTINGS ARE SPACESHIPS, PILOTED BY BEINGS FROM OTHER PLANETS."

     "WITNESSES HAVE SEEN UFOS TRAVELING AT SPEEDS, AND MANEUVERING IN WAYS THAT NO MAN MADE AIRCRAFT COULD, GIVEN OUR PRESENT TECHNOLOGY. THEREFORE, THESE UFOS ARE FROM OTHER WORLDS."

To begin with, both of these Statements are Completely Subjective, and without Ways to Test or Verify Either, are Scientifically Valueless.  The SCIENTIFIC METHOD, THROUGH A PROCESS OF CRITICAL THINKING WHICH OBEYS THE RULES OF LOGIC, CANNOT PROPERLY EVALUATE "EVIDENCE" THAT CONTAINS NOTHING TO SUBSTANTIATE THE CLAIMS BEING MADE. 

Let's look at this in another way. Suppose I were to change the FIRST STATEMENT FROM:

"MOST UFO SIGHTINGS ARE SPACESHIPS, PILOTED BY BEINGS FROM OTHER PLANETS."

TO:

"MOST UFO SIGHTINGS ARE TIME SHIPS, PILOTED BY HUMAN BEINGS FROM THE EARTHS DISTANT FUTURE."

The Second Statement is no more "TRUE" OR "FALSE" THAN THE FIRST. FOR EITHER OPINION TO BE ARGUED AS THE CORRECT ONE IS MISSING THE POINT.  NEITHER CAN PASS AS A PROPER "THEORY," BECAUSE THEY DO NOT MEET THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF SUCH.

FOR SOME REASON, (Perhaps it is the lack of CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS), SOME HEAR STATEMENTS LIKE THESE IN THE MEDIA, AND ACCEPT THEM AS BELIEVABLE OR PLAUSIBLE. Yet, AT BEST, THEY ARE NOTHING MORE THAN WISHFUL THINKING ON THE PART OF THE INDIVIDUALS MAKING SUCH CLAIMS, WHO ARE GIVEN A PLATFORM FOR NO OTHER REASON THAN THE HOPE THAT IT WILL INCREASE RATINGS.

Now you may Think That a PARTICULAR BELIEF ABOUT UFOS, SUCH AS THEIR ORIGIN AND CAPABILITIES, DON'T REALLY HARM ANYONE. WHO IS THE VICTIM, AND WHY SHOULD WE CARE?

THE PROBLEM EXISTS WHEN YOU ALLOW THAT LINE OF REASONING TO BE APPLIED TO OTHER BRANCHES OF SCIENCE, AND JUST AS DAMAGING, OUR POLITICAL AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEMS.

WHAT A SHAME- A look at the low points in the modern media. THEY SAID...WHAT? ARE YOU SURE? PT 3.

For Clarification, take a look at the examples given in Part 2.

POLITICIAN.

When a Commercial Promoting a Certain Individual for Elected Office is shown, how often do you hear the word "Politician" used to define the Person being Endorsed? Probably never, or very rarely.  Why? Because we tend to associate the Term with Dishonesty and Secrecy, and a Lack of Trust. 

MOM.

I know it's a silly question, but do you think that the Ad Agency took the time to conduct a Survey about the Opinions of Moms who "Care" about Eliminating Germs and Bacteria?  What would the Control Group be, Uncaring Moms who let Their Family Live in Filth?  Of course not. "Mom" is a Buzz Word that is supposed to Stir Up Feelings of Safety, Security, Love and Most of all TRUST.

OLD FASHION.

Nothing Lends to Feelings of Nostalgia like the phrase "OLD FASHION" or "OLD FASHIONED."  It is a Natural Tendency for many Human Beings to Romanticize their Childhood Memories, and Create a Fantasy World that has Little Basis in Reality.  A look back at "THE GOOD OLD DAYS", is a Time Tested Gimmick to remind Consumers of Easier and Simpler Times.  Whether or not that is in Anyway True, is Immaterial to the Goal of Selling Products.

GUARANTEE.

A "Guarantee" is also a misleading term, often cloaked in a Disguise of Honesty and Integrity.  Unless it specifically refers to certain Goods and Services, it could apply to just about anything.  A Guarantee in an Advertisement is meant to imply Trust and Honesty, but all that Counts is what is Promised in the Contract.

HIDDEN, STUCK, CHARGES.

Are all words used in the Above Example that references "Guarantee."  However, it is apparent that the Emotional Response desired by using them, is in Direct Opposition to that of Guarantee.

Consider the Following;

HIDDEN-  Sneaky, Underhanded.

STUCK-  Force, Involuntary.

CHARGES-  Cost, Spend, Wasteful.

Naturally, it would be Risky to use these Alternate Terms in a Commercial Advertisement, for they Imply Deliberate Forms of Deceit.  Yet the same Message can be delivered Loud and Clear, with a little Creativity and a Good Dictionary.

AUDIO/VIDEO POST. THE WORLD OF CRYPTOZOOLOGY. PT 4: BIGFOOT, SECTION 1.

AUDIO/VIDEO POST. LOGIC. HOW CAN YOU SPOT A WELL REASONED ARGUMENT, OR AN IRRATIONAL ONE?. PT 1. (AUDIO ONLY.)

AUDIO/VIDEO POST. KNOW YOUR OPPONENT, THEN MAKE A STAND.

WILL THE REAL CHRISTIAN PLEASE STAND UP? FULL STORY.

PART 1.

Many years ago there lived a man who traveled about the countryside. He was a Peddler, and made his living selling merchandise to local villages.  As time went on, he realized that he must expand his customer base, or go out of business.

This worried him, for it meant conducting trade with people he did not know, and who did not know him.  Nonetheless he set out, planning to call on towns and villages that were beyond his normal territory.

However, as fate would have it, he ran into immediate bad luck. As he approached the first village, a great storm erupted. Wind, rain and lightning made travel most difficult. Even worse, he carried his wares upon his back, for he could not afford a pack animal.

As he approached the first home, he thought to himself, " I just need shelter, and will ask no more." The Peddler arrived at the front door of a small , but well maintained cottage. Shivering, he knocked feebly on the front door.  After a few moments it opened and a stout and formidable looking man of no more than thirty years, answered.

"What do you want?", asked the figure in the doorway.

" Kind sir,"  replied the Peddler,  "I seek shelter from the storm. I am new to this Township, but hope to find new friends and customers from the good people who live here."

The Man frowned slightly, and with a sneer asked; "Do you accept Jesus as you lord and Savior?"

The Peddler was taken aback. No one had ever asked such a question.

"I am not a religious man,"  he stammered, "but I believe there is good in all of us, regardless of how we find it."  The man shook his head and with a sly smile closed the door. His last words, as the door was closing, chilled the already cold and frightened Peddler to the bone.

''We don't want your type around, you are godless."

End of PT 1.

PT 2.

The Peddler was left standing at the front door as the rain continued to come down.

"I don't understand," he thought as he walked to the next cottage.  "I have never harmed this man, why would he turn me away?"

Unfortunately, it was only the beginning.  Despite the storm, the Peddler was denied sanctuary time and time again.

In each case he was asked if he accepted Jesus as his savior.  Being a man of principle, he told the truth.  "I respect what you believe," he would say, "but I am a man who has not studied such things.  I only seek refuge from the storm."

This honesty only seemed to doom the Peddler, for he reached the last cottage in despair.  He thought, "If they do not offer me shelter, where am I to go?"

As he approached the front door his heart sank.  The dwelling was small, compared to the others in the village.  Further, it had seen better days, for it was in a general state of disrepair.  In addition, the garden surrounding the cottage looked not to have been tended or cared for in quite some time.  The Peddler, however, was desperate.  He arrived at the front door, and with a heavy sigh, began to knock in earnest.  After a few moments the door started to open slowly...

PT 3.

As the door opened, the Peddler began to shake. "This is my last chance", he thought,  "I will say anything, for I cannot go on."

To his relief the figure in the doorway soon presented itself.  A small woman, perhaps half his size, looked up at him.  The Peddler was taken aback.  His possible benefactor was advanced in age and seemed to be on the edge of physical collapse.

The Peddler collected his wits, and with a sense of desperation began to speak.  "Good woman," he began, "I have traveled far, but I am in need of the hospitality of a person like you who would not turn away one in need." The Peddler braced himself for the expected interrogation, but it did not come.

"You poor man,"  was the reply, "come in and warm yourself by my humble fire.  I cannot offer much, but what I have is yours."  With that the woman turned and gestured for the Peddler to follow.

The Peddler entered, following the small figure.  The room he beheld was even more Spartan than he had imagined.  Very few pieces of furniture were present, and he watched as his host sat herself upon a rocking chair located near a large brick fireplace.  The fireplace seemed to dominate the room, for it provided the only illumination.  The Peddler sat down upon a small ottoman and rubbed his hands together.

Confused by this sudden change of fortune, he stammered, "I have no wish to cause you harm, but your neighbors rejected me because I am not a Christian.  Why do you offer me aid.  Will they not turn against you?"

The old woman began to laugh, and with a sigh turned to the peddler and replied:"Stranger, you are new to this place.  It was not always so, at one time all were welcome.  Unfortunately, the leaders of our community became convinced of their importance, which included controlling the spiritual life of all its' citizens.  This control would not tolerate dissension, so all those who opposed were either ostracized or banished.  They use Christianity as a tool to justify their personal prejudices.  In this manner, they subvert the true teachings of our lord."

(Look for PT.4)

PT 4.

Being a simple man with no illusions, I tried to grasp the meaning of what was being said. "Good Woman," I asked in earnest, "Why would your neighbors condemn honest people who act with great Charity, even though they are not Christian."

My host stared into the fire and shuddered. "It is well that you came upon me," she answered, "for you can leave this accursed township with your head held high. Those who govern this community rule by fear."

I stood up, and rubbing my hands together, approached the fireplace.  However, I still had questions.

"You are a woman in torment," I declared, "however, you seem to hold fast that Christianity is a system of belief that will not exploit others.  Why do you remain among those who proclaim Christian beliefs, but who violate the essential tenets set forth in scripture?"

My host stood up from her position by the fire and very slowly came over to me. She stood before me and with moistening eyes said, "They are not evil, but have lost their way.  If our savior sacrificed everything to redeem humanity, do I not have an obligation to continue his work?"

The next day I left.  However, I provided my benefactor with a quantity of worldly goods free of charge.  I may be a great trader, but she is dealing in higher stakes.

God help us all if she, and others like her, fail.

THE END.

\